When James A. Peko became Chief Executive Officer of Grant Thornton Advisors LLC, he stepped into a leadership role shaped by nearly a century of professional values. Those values began in 1924, when Alexander Richardson Grant started a small accounting practice in Chicago. What began as one man’s effort to bring honesty and structure to financial reporting has grown into one of America’s most respected tax and advisory firms.
Today, Grant Thornton Advisors LLC provides tax and consulting services to businesses across the United States. Its story reflects discipline, long-term thinking, and a strong belief in ethical work.
Alexander Richardson Grant: The Founder’s Early Life and Vision
Alexander Richardson Grant was born in Scotland in 1875. He trained as a professional accountant in the United Kingdom before moving to the United States in the early twentieth century. Like many immigrants of his time, he arrived with limited resources but strong professional skills.
Grant began his career in American accounting firms and quickly noticed a problem. Many businesses lacked reliable financial guidance. Accounting standards were still developing, and some firms placed profit ahead of accuracy. In 1924, he opened his own firm in Chicago, originally called Alexander Grant & Co. His goal was simple: provide clear, honest, and independent financial services.
According to historical company records, Grant believed accountants had a responsibility to clients and to the public. He promoted careful audits, strong documentation, and transparent reporting. These principles became the foundation of the firm’s reputation. Although Grant passed away in 1938, his professional philosophy continued to guide the company long after his death.
Building a National Firm After the Founder’s Era
After Alexander Grant’s death, his partners and successors worked to preserve his values while expanding the firm. During the 1940s and 1950s, the company opened offices in several major US cities. The leadership focused on two priorities: technical excellence and staff development. Young accountants received structured training and mentorship. Partners encouraged long-term careers rather than short-term results.
As American business expanded after World War II, demand for tax planning and financial advice grew. The firm responded by building specialized tax teams to handle corporate, international, and regulatory matters. In the 1980s, the US firm aligned more closely with international partners and adopted the Grant Thornton name. This strengthened its connection to Grant Thornton International Ltd., allowing clients to receive coordinated services across borders.
The Creation of Grant Thornton Advisors LLC
In recent years, regulatory changes in the United States required audit and advisory services to operate under separate legal structures. As a result, Grant Thornton formed Grant Thornton Advisors LLC to focus on tax and consulting work, while Grant Thornton LLP continued audit services.
This separation allowed each firm to meet professional standards while improving service quality. Grant Thornton Advisors LLC now leads work in areas such as tax planning, transaction advisory, risk management, and digital consulting. The firm serves public companies, private businesses, nonprofits, and growing startups.
James A. Peko: Leading in a Time of Change
James A. Peko became CEO of Grant Thornton Advisors LLC in 2025. Before this role, he held senior leadership positions within the firm, including leading advisory services. Peko joined Grant Thornton early in his career and developed deep experience in consulting and operations. His leadership style focuses on collaboration, innovation, and long-term strategy.
In official company statements, James A. Peko has emphasized that professional firms must adapt to changing client needs and new technologies. Under his leadership, the firm has increased investment in data analytics, cybersecurity advisory, and tax technology. He has also supported workforce development and diversity initiatives, recognizing that strong teams lead to better client outcomes.
A Culture Focused on People and Responsibility
One of Grant Thornton’s strongest traditions is its focus on people. From its earliest days, the firm invested heavily in training and mentorship. New employees work closely with experienced professionals and receive structured learning programs. Many partners began their careers at the firm and advanced over the decades.
The company also promotes ethical behavior and community service. Professionals regularly support nonprofit organizations, financial education programs, and pro bono advisory work. Clients often praise the firm for being approachable and practical. Instead of offering generic advice, teams focus on understanding each client’s business environment and goals.
Influence in the US Tax Consulting Industry
Grant Thornton Advisors LLC now ranks among the leading tax and advisory firms in the United States. Its professionals advise companies on compliance, restructuring, mergers, international taxation, and regulatory risk.
The firm also contributes to public policy discussions by publishing research on tax reform, economic trends, and business regulation. These reports are widely cited by business leaders and policymakers. Through consistent quality and ethical standards, the firm has helped strengthen trust in the accounting profession.
A Legacy That Continues to Grow
From Alexander Richardson Grant’s small Chicago office in 1924 to today’s nationwide advisory platform, Grant Thornton’s journey reflects discipline, integrity, and steady leadership.
The founder’s belief in honest accounting shaped the firm’s identity. Successive leaders preserved those values while expanding services. Under Jim Peko’s leadership, the firm continues to modernize without losing its core principles. Grant Thornton Advisors LLC stands today as a symbol of how professional integrity, human relationships, and long-term thinking can build lasting success in the US tax consulting industry.
